Rincon Peak

Overview

Featuring dramatic view, primitive trails, and quiet solitude, hiking to the summit of Rincon Peak is one of the most rewarding adventures to be had in the Rincon Mountains. The journey to the summit of Rincon Peak is sizable, beginning with a long drive to the trailhead. The effort that goes into ascending to the summit is well worth it, however, and many locals count the route as one of their favorites in the area.

While not the tallest of the Rincon Mountains (Mica Mountain earns that title at 8,666 ft), Rincon Peak is certainly one of the most scenic (it slots in at 8,482 ft). The shoulders of the mountain are tree covered and provide plenty of shade for the intrepid hiker. Along the way, you'll pass through ponderosa pine forests and open meadows, enjoying sweeping vistas first of the Happy Valley below, and of the larger Tucson area further along.

Once you reach the summit, you'll break out of the dense forest as the summit is capped with bald granite that is characteristic of the area. From here, you'll have a panoramic view with views of metropolitan Tucson all the way to the Happy Valley, and from Mica Mountain to Mt. Wrightson. You'll have plenty of opportunities to rest at the top, where a summit monument makes for a windbreak on especially breezy days. Most of the time though, the cool breeze is a welcome treat after a long journey!

Due to a lack of reliable water resources, it can be logistically difficult to spend the night in the area, and many choose to complete this route in a single day. Be sure that you head out early and bring a headlamp if you're hoping to return to your vehicle on the same day that you summit the peak. Those wishing to camp are welcome to do so, and the most popular spot is in the Happy Valley Campground, located just a little ways past the Miller Creek Trail. You'll need a permit to camp overnight.

All-Day Hike: The route to the peak is both long and strenuous, but the difficult approach makes the summit all the sweeter. See the Rincon Peak featured hike for more information on the route.